STAMFORD, Conn., Oct. 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --On any given morning, millions of Americans are jolted out of a peaceful slumber by the jarring sound of an alarm clock. More than half of those people react by hitting the snooze button without giving pause to the fact that those extra few minutes of sleep have little to no benefit when it comes to waking up feeling more rested. Daylight Savings Time makes waking up even more difficult, since it is a sign that the days are getting even shorter and darker. Now, there's a better, more relaxing way to start the day with the new Philips Wake-up Light. It's designed to simulate the sunrise for a more natural wake-up experience¹.

A recent survey² found that nearly six out of 10 employed Americans hit the snooze button at least once a week. More than just a sleep disruptor, "snoozing" may actually enable other habits that detract from a smooth morning routine. The survey revealed some interesting trade-offs for more than 80 percent of those that admitted to being regular snoozers. Negative behaviors included skipping breakfast (nearly 50%) and morning workouts (40%), as well as missing out on quality time with loved ones (more than 25%).

Philips is encouraging Americans to stop "snoozing" and trade in their traditional alarm clock for a more relaxing way to wake up. The new Philips Wake-up Light (HF3500 and HF3505) is clinically proven to improve the ability to function in the morning³. It simulates a natural sunrise by gradually increasing in brightness 30 minutes before the alarm is set to go off, signaling the body to transition from sleep to waking up and providing a more natural and energizing way to get out of bed4.

"Philips is committed to improving peoples' lives through innovative products that enhance their existing routines," said Annette Domnik, Senior Marketing Director at Philips Consumer Lifestyle. "The traditional wake-up routine involves a noisy alarm, which is a disruptive and less than natural way to rise. With Philips Wake-up Light, we are providing a solution that offers a better way to start your day."

The Philips Wake-up Light is available in four different models, ranging from $69.99 - $169.99. Each model has a sleek and stylish design and can serve as a bedside lamp, with 10-20 different light settings.

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a diversified health and well-being company, focused on improving people's lives through meaningful innovation in the areas of Healthcare, Consumer Lifestyle and Lighting. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips posted 2012 sales of EUR 24.8 billion and employs approximately 114,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. The company is a leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as male shaving and grooming and oral healthcare. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.